MELVILLE, N.Y. (Nov. 30, 2008) Nikon Inc. today announced the D3X, an FX-format digital SLR featuring extreme 24.5-megapixel resolution and superb low-noise capabilities, which provides professional photographers with commercial-quality image performance in a familiar and extraordinarily versatile D-SLR form factor. In conjunction with the groundbreaking Nikon FX-format D3, the D3X tops off a collection of flagship level, rugged, professional caliber digital single lens reflex cameras engineered to excel in all types of professional photographic disciplines from photojournalism and sideline sports, to commercial in-studio applications.

The foundation of the enhanced performance of the D3X is its FX-format, 24.5-megapixel (6048 x 4032) CMOS sensor providing commercial, high fashion, fine art and landscape photographers with the extreme resolution, dynamic range, color depth, detail and sharpness that clients demand. Whether creating catalogs, magazine covers, billboards or gallery prints, the large 5.49-micron pixel size and high signal to noise ratio produces vibrant images with breathtaking image fidelity while reducing lost highlights and shadows, and ensuring smoother tone reproduction with minimized noise. With full resolution shooting speeds of up to five frames-per-second (fps), and 14-bit files, that when processed are approximately 138 MB, the D3X offers today's photographic artists an extreme level of performance and versatility ready for demanding assignments in the studio or on location.

In 2007, the 12.1-megapixel FX-format D3 delivered groundbreaking digital SLR image quality, coupled with incomparable high ISO, low noise performance and high-speed handling. In doing so, the D3 broke photographic barriers, enabling photographers to work in ways never before possible, said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. Now, the new 24.5-megapixel FX-format D3X D-SLR provides the extreme resolution and high dynamic range capabilities needed to meet the extraordinary needs of photographic disciplines such as high fashion, commercial advertising and fine art. The D3X delivers this remarkable capability while fitting seamlessly within the Nikon system, taking full advantage of Nikon's world-renowned collection of NIKKOR lenses and Speedlights.

Image Quality Takes Center Stage
To re-emphasize the importance of image quality above all else, the D3X delivers an incredible level of digital SLR performance to provide photographers with extremely high resolution, exceptional dynamic range, phenomenal total gradation and outstanding color reproduction. Image files can be recorded as TIFF, JPEG or NEF (RAW) formats in either 12- or 14-bit compressed or uncompressed formats, and recorded to UDMA compatible CompactFlash cards for optimum speed. Photographers can save image files directly to the dual card slots as overflow, backup, or as separate file formats to different cards. Building on the D3X's flexibility, users have the creative option to shoot in the 5:4 crop mode with 20.4-megapixel resolution, the ideal format for creating 8 x 10-inch portraits. While using DX-format lenses, faster continuous shooting of up to seven frames per second can be achieved at a resolution of 10.5 megapixels.

The exceptionally low noise of the D3X is essential to any professional commercial application, and it provides photographers with an ISO range of 100 to 1600, expandable to 50 (Lo-1) and 6400 (Hi-2). The ultra smooth tones and lack of grain at ISO 1600 as well as at low sensitivity settings result in smooth, natural skin tones and exacting detail that, before the D3X, required larger and far costlier studio-bound camera systems.

Advanced Technologies, Meticulously Executed
In a commercial setting or on location, imaging professionals need high performance in both speed and processing. The Nikon D3X can shoot at up to five fps at full resolution or up to seven fps in DX crop mode, allowing photographers to catch the split-second difference in a model's expression or capture all of the action in a sequence. Just like the D3, the D3X achieves a start-up time of a mere 0.12 seconds and a shutter release time lag of 0.04 seconds.

The D3X's speed, as well as high levels of performance, leverages Nikon core technologies including a newly enhanced EXPEED Image Processing System, specially designed for the D3X to provide superior image quality, faster processing speeds and lower power consumption. This advanced system is able to achieve extremely precise color reproduction for a broad spectrum of hues, in addition to vivid saturation and smooth gradation. What's more, Nikon's advanced noise processing function is engineered to minimize noise at all sensitivities and operate seamlessly without interfering with other image color parameters.

The D3X also features Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System, which continuously analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor, to further refine auto exposure, auto white balance and autofocus calculations. This results in flattering portraits and awe-inspiring landscapes that portray accurate color and fine details. Nikon's exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II helps ensure accurate exposures, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Instantly evaluating each scene before capture, input data from the system's sensor is automatically referenced against an internal database of more than 30,000 images derived from actual photographs to calculate correct exposure values. Active D-Lighting, used in combination with 3D Matrix Metering II, helps to determines proper exposure, and creates realistic contrast while compensating for lost shadows and highlights. Prior to shooting, users can choose from Extra High, High, Normal, Low or Off settings, as well as an Auto mode.

Additionally, the D3X features Nikon's exclusive Multi-CAM 3500FX focus module, with 51 AF points, 15 cross type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors that easily track and lock onto moving subjects, delivering the same fast and accurate AF performance that helped make the D3 immediately successful. Users can select any of the AF points, making it easy to consistently attain accurate focus right on a subject's eyes, frame after frame. Additionally, three AF-area modes Single point, Dynamic-area AF and Auto-area AF are available to maximize the use of the 51 focus points by selecting the most suitable one to match subject conditions. AF is also available in one of two Live View modes optimized for the studio, including a phase detection handheld mode and a tripod mode. This feature allows the user to zoom in up to 27x on the LCD screen to ensure critical focus. While in Live View, the graphic indication of a virtual horizon is also available, making it easier than ever to confirm camera orientation.

To further ensure each photographer's ability to balance their personal style, Nikon's Picture Control System enables users to adjust their images to pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome that apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall tone and saturation. Photographers have creative control over these image parameters with the use of up to nine available customizable presets.

Synchronizing Both Form and Function
Engineered for real-world functionality, the D3X retains a rugged shell with moisture, dust and shock resistance that has become a hallmark of flagship Nikon D-SLRs, while preserving the usability and ergonomics that allow the camera to remain an extension of the photographer's vision. Attention to detail goes so far as to include a self-diagnostic shutter system that is tested to exceed 300,000 cycles for maximum durability and longevity. The camera's body also maintains the resilient magnesium alloy construction and form factor of the D3, promoting consistent Nikon system synergy.

A bright and accurate viewfinder offers 100 percent coverage with 0.7x magnification. The body also houses Nikon's acclaimed 3.0-inch super density LCD screen, now relied upon by so many photographers. The high-resolution 920,000-dot screen is viewable at wide angles up to 170 degrees, and will allow photographers to quickly zoom in to confirm critical focus. Users can also output the video signal to an external display via HDMI to allow client viewing. Thanks to incredibly efficient internal circuitry, the D3X can capture up to 4400* shots per single charge of the camera's Lithium ion battery.

System Strength Withstands the Test of Time
The D3X is fully compatible with Nikon's Creative Lighting System (CLS) to give photographers a mobile lighting solution that is easy to manage. To further enhance mobility, the D3X is compatible with Nikon's GP-1 GPS receiver to gather information such as latitude, longitude, altitude and date of shooting. Photographers can easily shoot tethered via USB, or use the WT-4a wireless transmitter to send images wirelessly when speed and mobility are essential. D3X users will also enjoy the system strength of more than 50 genuine NIKKOR lenses that provide outstanding sharpness and high resolution across a broad range of focal lengths.

Price and Availability
The Nikon D3X will be available at Nikon Authorized Professional Dealers starting December 2008, and will be available for an estimated selling price of $7999.95.**

* Based on CIPA Standards
** Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX compact digital cameras; COOLSCAN digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. For the second consecutive year, Nikon D Series digital SLR cameras are recognized as Highest in Customer Satisfaction with digital SLR cameras, Two Years in a Row, Tied in 2008 according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 and 2008 Digital Camera Usage and Satisfaction StudiesSM. Nikon Corporation, the parent company of Nikon Inc., recently celebrated its 75th anniversary of NIKKOR optics and announced the production of over 45 million NIKKOR SLR interchangeable lenses. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-UX or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

I think it’s that Nikon was able to do it on the FX D700 not that long ago, a mid-range model (or semi-pro, or pro backup, depending on how you look at it). It’s sort of contrary to the typical trickle down effect of features in dSLRs. I mean, why isn’t Nikon able to squeeze the anti-dust mechanism in? I’d rather have that than 100% viewfinder coverage (95% is fine, I think). But, honestly, Nikon should be able to develop a way to get the anti-dust in and keep 100% viewfinder coverage (D300 does it). I do understand that the D300 sensor is smaller; but come on…

Anonymous

I am pretty underwhelmed by the specs. Basically a D3 with bigger sensor and much bigger price tag. Hardly seems worth it…

AZ

I don’t think it’s such a big problem, rather wonder either the sensor is the same as in A900 or it’s manufactured by Nikon. Can’t wait to see pictures.

psyked

Overpriced. Didn’t think Nikon would follow the way of the Canon 1DsMkIII. Not sure if this it’s a smart move on their part.

Anonymous

Seriously how do you not include such a time saving function like the self cleaning sensor that is included with cameras costing 20% of the D3x. Pure laziness on Nikon’s part.

Anonymous

It’s a choice between the anti-dust system and a 100% viewfinder. Guess which one the pro’s want more.

Ernst

That’s a false dilemma. Just because Nikon’s particular implementation meant that the D700 had a slightly cropped finder doesn’t mean there’s some kind of intrinsic barrier to anti-dust and 100% finder coverage.

You could say, ‘Disappointing so far. The sample images better blow my mind.’ Because that’s what I’m saying to myself right now, haha.

Brent Parkin

Wow. Stunningly over priced. How foolish. Had they priced the camera near the $6K mark they would have sold a boat load. The Canadian suggested price of nearly $9.5K is insanity.

I guess I will have my local shop take me off the list he put me on last week.

Juergen

In Germany MSRP is 6.999 Euro (which includes German VAT at 19 percent).

Wiilyb

$9500 CDN is NUTS

Chaz

As a D3 owner, I’d have to say this is definitely a bit of a let down. No sensor cleaning and basically a just a slower, more megapixels D3. I had anticipated upgrading to the D3X for studio work, but I find myself rethinking such an idea.

Bring on the lenses Nikon!

channeljockey

Consider yourselves in the U.S. lucky: the MSRP in Canada will be $9449.95. Remember that until recently the Cdn $ and the US $ were worth approximately the same (in fact last year the Cdn $ was worth MORE than the US $ – like it used to be up until the ’70s) – it’s only been in the last month or so that the Cdn $ has dropped some 20% in value.

I look forward to trying it tomorrow..will upload some test shots if were allowed to use our cf cards in it

Anonymous

It really would have been nice if they would have added some more upgrades to the D3 than just a larger sensor. 100% price increase just for a larger file? Does everyone need video, no but why not continue the advances in your brand by offering it on your flagship but include autofocus. You have options on one of the lowest priced cameras that you don’t have on the highest.

oz

SOOo no video?!? Now what? 🙁

bigmouth

why are the sample images hosted in Serbia? I mean, no offense, but Yugoslavia is not exactly known for its photographic history (except war journalism?!)

Yeah, there are some disturbing trends. But, overall, I’d say the company is doing fairly well. I mean, the D3 was a revolutionary, still is really, camera. And that got a lot of working professionals that switched Canon to come back; and the D3x, despite its high price, might get some studio photographers that left to come back and get some new ones to jump in. But, at $8000, it might be tough.

This is rather off-topic: how do I get a picture like Framed and Shot has?

Pablov

I don’t know…

– Almost twice as much as a D3.
– (unless a hidden or new feature becomes visible…) it IS a D3 with higher res sensor. Really worth that price?
– No new lenses that so many people are requesting
– No video (that few are requesting, but I can bet Canon will release their Pro new DSLR with a good Video feature implementation, thus being far ahead in that area again)
– No new features (I know, I said is a “D3”, like many ones said)
– Some financial problems (like lot of companies, but Nikon doesn’t have so wide products options and choices like Canon has. Nikon basically just relies on photography and some other opticals)
– The competition has High-res DSLRs at a much lower price. Even if those DSLRs are not as fast or good as D3x, the difference in price is big
– As someone said, some lower end DSLR have newer features that this High res does not.

Nikon gear use to be at high price. This one is over-over priced in my opinion. And because of what I mentioned, that certainly worries me…

I definitely hear what you’re saying. And when you lay it all out like that, yeah, it does look bad for Nikon right now. But come on now, we still don’t have full-size samples from the D3x, I’m gonna try and hold my judgment until then.

As far as the price goes though; yeah, it’s really, really high. Nikon must have some sort of justification for it, I mean…I hope they do.

Gah, I need to see some of those 138mb files in all their glory.

Freehawk

Isn’t it true that the MSRP is much higher than the street price? Maybe it will be more like $6000

The D3 started at MSRP $5000. And sold for at least that for six months or so, at least, I believe.

So…for a while, I’d say $8000 is what it’ll cost. Regrettably.

I’m telling you what, it better produce some amazing images.

Anonymous

Boooo! All I wanted from Nikon was full frame and more MP… looks like Canon answered first, and for the right price. Canon 5D Mark II! In your face NIKON!!! BOOYAH!!!

Anonymous

True That

Anonymous

I agree on this too ! I’ll get the 5D Mark II

Sharon

I am SO disappointed. I was very excited about getting the D3x, but there is no way I can justify spending the $9,500 (Canadian) for this camera.

Anonymous

to the previous poster…. what are you 10 years old? Go buy a Canon then if that is what YOU need… no one cares about your stupid comment…

It is pricey but lets not forget the other great cameras options they have in nearly all price ranges if this one is beyond our reach…. I don’t think their is anything wrong with having something at this price since it is more of a specialty camera and those who want it will pay for it…

Anonymous

not you sharon 😉

K Tolba

It’s almost as if no one bothered to tell Nikon about a small little wonder from Canon named 5D Mark II. that little wonder has high-quality low-noise sensor that produce 21.4 MP files, hi-Res video and sells for a small fraction of the D3x MSRP of $ US 8K. It’s amazing they still went ahead with their price point

Pablov

with all my respects and Admiration for Nikon designs and quality, but I should ask myself… “amazing” or crazy ??

pete

i guess by your logic, the 5dMkII just made the 1Ds MkIII redundant right dumbass ?

DAC

finally D3x is here hahaha 🙂

Chris P

I agree with all the other posters about the asking price. If it had been £4,000 here in the UK they would have sold more than enough to make a bigger profit than they will trying to sell them at £5,500. The master marketing stroke would have been to offer the D3 and the D3x as a bundle at £6,000. At that price wedding photographers would have been forming queues.

What I don’t understand is the demand from some posters for built in sensor cleaning. It’s a bit like VR we must have VR, which actually degrades the image, and is totally unecessary, on FX on any lens under 100mm focal length. This is a camera aimed at professionals who are using medium format at present, what medium format camera has it? None

Chris P

Pablov

well, for that price it really should have it, or at least a free 5-year service to do it 😀

Just think about this: to achieve best results in details with so high res sensor you must use high quality lenses, oftenly primes, so everytime you change the lens is a chance to collect dust.
Not to mention that the D3 has a reported dust-collecting problem besides the lenses exchange.

What’s the surprise here! If your a serious player seems 3 grand over the D3 is a spit. Did you think Nikon was going sell it for $500 more than the D3? Believe me, once the pro’s start getting their sweaty hands on it and start talking about it’s wonders. You’ll find them on Ebay selling for 10 grand, Dust buster or not! Did everyone here sleep through the D3 Drama?

Anonymous

That would only happen if there were no players with a big red c on their chest.
Nikons not the only one in this league!

Dan

I would say the price to be the most disappointment then the ISO performace and noise. By the pictures of the mini site gallery and comparison, the D3x ISO1600 is about the same as the D3 at ISO 6400 in noise. Nikon will come back to satisfy the D3 fans with something like the D3 and not like the D3x. Just a matter of time. And the D3x will drop $1k after 2 months of poor sales. Nikon make your own sensor architecture and not rely on Sony’s.

Anonymous

and D3 6400 equals 5DMKII 12800!

Anonymous

Has there ever been an upgrade that was sensor only? I converted from Canon to Nikon and can’t think of a Canon upgrade that sensor only. For $4000 extra it better be a very special sensor.

Pablov

I’ll tell you a top secret……. this one makes Holographic images……. 😛

Freehawk

This is making the D700 sound great! The 5D MarkII as well- but then you have to use their glass ;-(

I use the nikon TS lens and the canon version just doesn’t cut it…..

Pablov

I now calculate that in this country it would (because I don’t know if ever “will” to someone) sell for just ……. USD 14,000

I now realize what the meaning of “so BIG” was……. hahaha
(sorry……. better to laugh than cry…)

Freehawk

One more thing- I just want a FF nikon with about 16 megapixels- get me to a 50mb Tiff & I’m OK from there, don’t care about high ISO’s

Ralf

8000 is about $12000 here in Oz. Nikon can shove that – I’m buying a 5DMkII – had to change most of my lenses to FF anyway.

Bye Bye Nikon

Stephen

Nikon have lost the plot…..shocking price! they wont sell many of these….I aint gonna buy one for sure….i was hoping for so much with this release…..

Pablov

After the announcement, the main topic turned to be about the price……
Who would have bet for that?

I’m sure Ken will have a great idea on how to get a D3x for lower price…
(no offense Ken !! just kidding 😉 )

He’ll just talk about how the D40 does all the same stuff for $7600 less. :p

Jørgen

Mr. Rockwell i actually happy because Nikon followed all his recommendations for the specifications. So he takes the honour for the camera.

It’s true. He says that. Look at his page.

Tomas

This camera is priced only for pro’s and some few with unlimited budget’s.

Nikon will lose out on the serious amatueurs, semi pro’s and hobbyist’s who were considering shelling out huge dollars for this camera – but at a reasonable price point. I was thinking 20-30% premium over D3 but $9500 here in Canada – come on.

Having said that – maybe the pics are twice as good as what comes out of the D3. That would sell it to me. hahah

Mark

One more thought, Seems this price may cause the D3 prices to rise slightly.
If your wanting the bells a whisles D700 doesen’t have, You might want to pick up a D3 soon, Retailers may move closer to Nikons MSRP of $5000.00

Djah

This body comes two years after the canon 1Ds with only 3mp more and nothing new compare to the actual D3, it’s a bit late, no ?
For me it’s not a smart move from nikon … Nothing new in this body, no video, no anti-dust, high price as a 1Ds, etc … but Canon should release a new 1Ds for 2009, and when you see what they’ve done with the 5D mark II, this “new” D3x will be really soon outdated.

lox

Learn from the turtles: The slower you move, the longer you live.

It’s been a long time since Nikon has provided well-designed, high-grade gear for professionals and amateurs. If every single item met everyones requirements, there would be no market, no choice.

Speaking for myself, I’d rather go for mechanical and optical excellence than for the latest extravagance of mediocre usefulness. Your preferences might differ. Go and get what fits you best. That’s what free market is all about. I’m completely satisfied with it, and so can you.

Djah

“Learn from the turtles: The slower you move, the longer you live.”

lol, really funny !

“I’d rather go for mechanical and optical excellence than for the latest extravagance of mediocre usefulness.”

mediocre usefulness ? then you should advise some guys like Vincent Laforet to change their 5D mkII …

lox

An hour to read and you still didn’t get the point.

I’m not going to advise anyone to do anything. Laforets work is great, and there’s no doubt about it that he made good use of a brand new Canon camera. So this appears to be the right tool for him to achieve his goals.

Does this say anything about my needs, or about yours? No, it doesn’t. I’m pretty satisfied with Nikon equipment, which perfectly allows me to do what I want to do. I don’t have full HD video, and I don’t need it. It indeed was an extravagance of (at best) mediocre usefulness – for me.

Things might look different from your point of view. If you’re up to follow in Laforet’s footsteps, go and get a 5D II. The quality and specs of Nikon gear could be of mediocre usefulness to you in this case.

That’s what I’m saying: There’s photographical equipment available for everybody’s needs. Isn’t that great? Or will you still argue that each and every photgraphical goal could be easier achieved with a Canon camera? Not seriously…

wyss

WOW~ no lens? bullcrap~!

ekg

A little way too much for pricing. Maybe not enough stock and hence this pricing scheme. Once production picks up we might see 5-6K usd which would be more appropriate. But of course there may be another model sitting in between d3 and D3x pricing some time in the recent future.
For those in professional need ,this may fill a gap nicely. For serious amateurs and hobbyists, forget it, they are better off saving their money for the next hi-res flagship or d700ish 24Mp.

I’m baffled that people were expecting anything more than a D3 with more pixels. This is exactly what every previous Nikon “X” model has been to its “H” model. As for price, this is on par with Canon. If you need more the pixels, you pay for them and don’t think twice, because you’re making a dozen huge mounted gallery prints that cost the same as the camera, or you’re making back the price of the camera in a handful shoots.

If you want the most pixels and the latest bells and whistles, all at the same time, do like your brethren and shoot Canon. Otherwise keep shooting Nikon and get everything a decade behind Canon but better executed. Simple choice, people.

Nikon user

I agree. This is just as expected.

Anonymous

Well since the D3 was introduced over a year ago there have been advancements in technology from all of the camera companies. Nikon had a chance to make the flagship camera the top of the line camera with all of the bells and whistles. Does everyone need a cleaning sensor, no but it sure helps and Nikon has the technology. Does everyone need a 100k+ life shutter, 2nd cf card slot or live view?

Ernst

The price thing is interesting.

The D3x sensor cannot cost much (if any) more than the D3 sensor, and the support electronics aren’t going to be much more, either. Nikon must believe that the D3x is *worth* more, and that they’ll make more money selling D3xes at $8K than $5K. This is almost certainly true, because the D3x’s competition is so expensive.

Is the D3x *actually* worth more than a D3, though? For sports, photojournalism, and other high-speed/low-light subjects, it’s worth significantly LESS. It’s in no way a “replacement,” and even if they charged the same amount for both, it would make much more sense to buy the D3 for these assignments.

den

not true. price should be at least 80-90% more. more pixels equals more spoilt.
and who said that they will drop the d3?

Ernst

The relationship between pixel density and (acceptable) yield is complex (and very secret). It’s complicated by the fact that that many types of defects can be corrected. I don’t know where you get the 80%-90% figure, which suggests that yield would drop nearly in *half*.

As for not dropping the D3: my point is that the D3 won’t be dropped NOT because Nikon needs a cheaper camera to sell, but because it’s a BETTER camera than the D3x for most applications. They could charge the same for both and they’d still sell both.

I think the D3x is $8K because they figure they can get it (obviously) and it’s competing it a generally very high-priced market.

den

i don´t understand the quarrel about the price. who would have bought such a camera in this forum? i find it ridiculous to even spend $4,000 for a d3 if you are an amateur.
the folks who need this camera will buy it and once the price drops (which will certainly occure) the amateurs can switch too, although i don´t understand for which tasks you will need this many pixels (as an amateur)?

I can easily afford to spend $8000 on a camera, but I won’t because I really don’t have enough time to use it enough to make the most of it. That plus I bought a D300 earlier this year.

This is introductory pricing. This forum has been telling Nikon that there is huuuuggggeee!!! demand for the D3x for months now. The initial production run is going to be limited.

If Nikon priced low there would be the risk of a black market developing. Pricing high and offering discounts allows Nikon to ensure that the scarcity profits end up in their hands and more importantly the hands of its professional dealer network. If I was at Nikon I would be most concerned about keeping the dealers from going under.

It might well be a lost cause at this point. B&H will survive and J&R and the other big mail order specialists. But I would really fear that the big national chains are going to fail in most countries. They were already being hammered due to the loss of the processing business and competition from discount electronics outlets.

I think that we will see most of the independent mom and pop stores go under. Nikon and Canon will both be forced to adopt the ‘Sony style’ retail model where they have a small number of demonstration showrooms in malls around the country where you can look at stuff with no obligation to buy (no sales, no discounts, everything list price).

Ernst

Huh? There’s no bright line between “amateur” and “professional” resolution. For example, many amateur landscape and wildlife photographers would love a 24MP camera.

The other fallacy is that pros are loaded. For all the Annie Liebovitzes out there, there are 1000 other pros out there making modest livings or just barely hanging on. Pros are cost-conscious, too.

faterikcartman

I thought Annie Liebovitz is broke and is being sued for not paying her bills?

And I agree there are VERY VERY FEW pro photogs who make a lot of money.

pete

they are just people who like to talk rubbish den. the camera is exactly what i would expect it to be. its a hi-res tool for hi-end still life pros. freakin dust reduction systems…how do some of you people even tie your own shoelaces ?

btw admin: the 50.1.4 afs was sublime. the d3x was nice but is not for me so i wasnt all that interested. shame there was no other news.

GT

Yeah price is steep – but how many here BE HONEST…. were going to spend USD $6000 anyway???
So stop whinging and go get the D3 or D700 you deserve….. or just whine to your grandmother (she deaf and won’t listen anyway).

G

Well I’m not surprised about there being a lack of anti-dust sensor, like someone mentioned earlier the Blad’s don’t have it either. My d3’s get used all week every week and I only have to clean them every couple of months. These Camera’s are aimed at pro photographers who will accept these things and treat the equipment as required.

As for the price it really isn’t that high in comparrisson to MF, you would be pretty close to £10,000 for a lower end Phase one sytem. I’m sure the files from the D3x (as good as they claim to be)will never match a good MF, BUT neither does the price!

I think this camera fills the void between DSLR and MF pretty well for social photographers with sudio’s who want that little bit more detail and bigger prints. The price tag will be irrelevant to them if it suits their needs.

Ernst

So long as “their needs” will pay for the camera and then some. Double the price to $16K and many of the same customers with the same needs will no longer be able to justify it.

Cost can be a BIGGER deal to working pros (who have a business to run) than rich amateurs, who for example are the people buying most Leicas these days. But even rich amateurs have budgets, too.

The long and short of it is that price always matters. Nikon thinks the sweet spot is $8K, and they may be right.

is very prettyyyy and people loke like have 8000dollars in equipment in their’s hands

G

Anybody see any info on the flash sync speed?

Philip Arthur

I think people are missing the point. This camera is targeted at the medium format professionals. You know the people who buy Hasselblads for between $17,995 and $21,995 minimum. Imagine them being able to get a camera at half that price with exceptional image quality, plus the ability to handhold.

That means less setup cost and time. More shooting possibilities all for less and a easier to handle camera. That is big for them, but for us it’s just an over priced D3 with more megapixels.

Yeah, if you look at it from that angle, the $8000 USD price is acceptable. I honestly also see this being a very desirable camera for full-time landscape professionals (although there aren’t many of those out there relative to portrait and studio people, haha). I would love to throw my 14-24mm on a D3x and go landscape wild. Honestly though, if you can work with the 5fps, you could probably take some really great sports photos also. I don’t know, this camera sounds pretty great to me; I mean, that’s so much detail.

It’ll be very, very interesting to see what medium-format professionals think of this camera. It’ll be even more interesting to see if it sells.

faterikcartman

Maybe I’m wrong, but I don’t think 24 megapixels is enough for full time landscape professionals. They’re going to stick with 4×5+ or 37mp+. IMO.

gocrazy

people what you think about the resolution of the samples photos from D3x?

Well, I mean, the photos are definitely sharp; there’s no question about that. And I mostly only care about those shot at low ISOs as I very rarely shoot at above ISO 800 anyways. That being said, the sample shots have impressed me. I really want to see some comparative shots of color tones and rendition between the D3 and the D3x. I saw some samples from the second link, I believe, at ISO 200, and those looked great. So, I don’t know, maybe the $8000 USD price tag is justified. Maybe.

gocrazy

well nikon’s D3x price tag is less than the best canon camera right? and nikon D3x is clearly superior to the canon1ds mrkIII so D3x is not overpriced i think we are paying for quality.
the samples from D3x can be compared to hasselblad models? in terms of resolution and something? i think this camera is very good for people who won’t pay 14k$ for one hasselblad and still want good quality
right?

Wiilyb

How do you figure the D3x is less than the 1DSMk3? B&H shows the Canon for $6679, the D3x is overpriced at $8,000.

I love Nikon but this pricing doesn’t make sense.

gocrazy

CANON EOS-1Ds Mark III in my country cost 7600EUROS
and i repeat euros… if people are buzzin that D3x will cost 5500£ then the D3x will cost 6300euros…more or less…

that was the calculation that i made i don’t know that in usa the canon EOS-1Ds Mark III was so cheap…

Nikon user

Canon 1Ds mk III were higher in price when it was new. When Canon upgrade it, it will cost around $7-8k too. This is the price-level for these cameras.